This spicy watermelon shrimp salad is refreshing and perfect for warm days! It combines juicy watermelon with grilled shrimp and a zesty dressing that adds just the right kick.
You’ll love how these flavors come together — it’s like a party in your mouth! I often serve this at summer BBQs; everyone’s always asking for the recipe, and it’s so easy to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp adds a great flavor, but you can use frozen shrimp if that’s more convenient. Just make sure to defrost them properly! For a different protein, grilled chicken or tofu could work well too.
Watermelon: Seedless watermelon is sweet and juicy, perfect for this salad. If it’s unavailable, cantaloupe or honeydew can also add a nice sweetness, though the texture will differ slightly.
Cilantro and Mint: Fresh herbs brighten up the salad! If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley is a good substitute, and if you want a bolder flavor, try basil. Mint is optional but refreshing if you enjoy it.
Jalapeño: Adjust the amount of jalapeño based on your spice level preference. You can replace it with a milder pepper like a green bell pepper or omit it altogether if you want to lessen the heat.
How Do I Grill Shrimp Perfectly?
Grilling shrimp can be quick, so watch them closely! Here are a few tips to ensure they turn out perfectly:
- Preheat your grill pan or skillet to medium-high heat to get a nice sear.
- Cook the shrimp in single layers, avoiding overcrowding, so they can caramelize nicely.
- Keep an eye on them; shrimp cook quickly. Once they turn pink and opaque, they’re done. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Let them cool slightly before adding to the salad, so they don’t wilt the fresh ingredients.
Spicy Watermelon Shrimp Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 lb (450g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cups seedless watermelon, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped (adjust for spice preference)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, chopped (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This vibrant salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 15 minutes for marinating the shrimp. You will spend around 10 minutes cooking, so overall, you can enjoy this refreshing dish in about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp Marinade:
In a bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Once everything is mixed well, add the shrimp, making sure they’re coated evenly with the marinade. Let this sit for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to mingle.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
While the shrimp marinates, heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Once done, remove them from the heat and let them cool slightly.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, honey or agave syrup, chopped jalapeño, and a pinch of salt. This dressing will add great flavor to your salad!
4. Assemble the Salad:
In a large bowl, start by combining the watermelon cubes, diced cucumber, sliced red onion, and chopped cilantro. If you’re using mint leaves, add them in as well for an extra refreshing twist!
5. Add Shrimp and Dressing:
Carefully fold in the cooked shrimp into the bowl with the salad ingredients. Then, drizzle the dressing you made over the salad. Toss everything together gently to ensure it’s evenly coated.
6. Serve:
If you like, chill the salad for about 10 minutes to enhance the flavors further. Then, serve this beautiful and spicy watermelon shrimp salad right away as a light meal or a stunning side dish!
Enjoy your delicious creation! This salad is sure to impress your family and friends!
FAQ for Spicy Watermelon Shrimp Salad
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen shrimp completely before marinating. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture before marinating and cooking.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder salad, you can omit the jalapeño or use a smaller amount. Alternatively, try using a milder pepper like a bell pepper. For more heat, leave the seeds in the jalapeño or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have extras, just give it a good stir before serving again. Keep in mind that the watermelon might release some juice, but it will still taste great!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the shrimp and the salad ingredients separately and store them in the fridge. Just wait to dress the salad until you’re ready to serve to keep the ingredients fresh and crunchy! Marinating the shrimp in advance can also enhance the flavors.
